Man killed in crash after police pursuit in central Fresno identified; suspect's name released

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- An innocent driver was killed on Thursday when a suspect behind the wheel of a Mustang tried to get away from Fresno Police.

Officers say they pulled over 33-year-old Roger Harris near Fresno and Olive for not stopping at a stop sign.

When they looked into the car, they spotted a handgun. Officers say Harris realized they saw his weapon and sped off, leading police on a chase eastbound on Olive Avenue.

Harris then swerved into a pick-up and the collision killed 48-year-old Guy Shearer who was inside the truck. The suspect ran from the area into a nearby neighborhood where he was arrested.

"This is the second victim thats been killed in less than 10 days by a criminal that should have been locked up," said Fresno Police Chief Andy Hall.

An illegal weapon was found inside the car, and police believe it may be connected to at least two prior shootings in the Fresno area. Chief Hall says Harris is a known gang member with 26 prior arrests ranging from domestic violence to terrorist threats.

Harris was involved in a string of robberies in 2006 and was wounded in a shootout with police after a robbery at a Taco Bell.

"This is just an unfortunate situation where we have to go out and arrest the same people over and over for the same violations when they get released from the justice system," Chief Hall said.

Harris was taken to the hospital for injuries sustained in the crash. Once he's released, he'll be booked at the Fresno County Jail on several charges including murder, resisting arrest and felony DUI.